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Canes’ Eric Staal set to return Tuesday

Edmonton Oilers v Carolina Hurricanes

RALEIGH, NC - MARCH 16: Eric Staal #12 of the Carolina Hurricanes against the Edmonton Oilers during their game at PNC Arena on March 16, 2014 in Raleigh, North Carolina. The Oilers won 2-1. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images)

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The Carolina Hurricanes finally got some good news Monday as captain Eric Staal expects to be in the lineup Tuesday when they visit the Vancouver Canucks.

Staal confirmed his return to reporters Monday following the Canes’ practice in Vancouver.

“I’ll be in tomorrow, and I’m excited to get back in there,” Staal told the team’s website. “It’s never fun watching, especially when you’re not in the win column.”

Staal centered a line of Jiri Tlusty and Alexander Semin.

The 29-year-old has been out of the lineup since Oct. 11 with a lower body injury suffered in a loss against the New York Islanders.

“He’s felt pretty good,” said coach Bill Peters. “When you’re struggling, to get your leader back and a very good player, it helps.”

In two games this season, Staal has a goal and an assist.

Carolina has gone 0-3-2 in Staal’s absence.

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